Equipment Operator I

The Maintenance/Equipment Operator I position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City's streets, parks, open spaces, public facilities, and equipment, and related infrastructure. This position performs a wide variety of tasks to ensure the safe and efficient operation of City services and facilities. Employees will be cross-trained to provide support for all Public Works functions. Perform labor involved in the maintenance and repair of streets, parks, buildings, and equipment. Operate light, medium, and heavy equipment, as well as hand and mechanical tools. Conduct snow plowing and ice control operations assigned. Perform activities such as cleaning, installation, construction, replacement, and demolition. Conduct routine inspection and preventive maintenance of assigned equipment. Participate in and assist with cross training in all Public Works activities. Follow all safety rules, policies, and applicable OSHA regulations. Prepare and maintain all necessary reports and records. Work overtime, variable shifts, or emergency call-outs as needed; may serve on a rotating on-call schedule. Other Duties May provide limited supervision for seasonal part-time staff as assigned. Performs other duties as assigned. Education High school diploma or equivalent. Possession of a valid Minnesota Driver's License. Ability to maintain a Minnesota Class B Commercial Driver's License with tanker, air brakes, and other required endorsements within 30 days of hire. Successful completion of a City-required physical examination, including drug and alcohol testing. Experience Knowledge of street construction and maintenance practices. Knowledge of general building and grounds construction and maintenance procedures. Knowledge of the methods and materials used in park maintenance. Skill in the safe and effective use of hand and power tools. Skill in basic preventative maintenance and repair of equipment. Ability to safely, properly, and efficiently complete assigned tasks and operate all required vehicles and equipment. Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the public. Ability to respond to 24-hour emergency callouts with a response time of 45 minutes or less from place of residence. Periodic availability on an on-call basis. Ability to perform strenuous physical labor and exercise sound judgment in emergency situations. Ability to take initiative to ensure quality maintenance of public infrastructure and reduce safety risks. . Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to speak, read, write, and communicate effectively in English. Ability to read and comprehend all operating instructions, safety directions and work orders relating to assigned equipment and tasks. Normal or corrected hearing. Vision of 20/40 or corrected to 20/40 including distance, color, peripheral vision, and depth perception. Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, kneel, balance, and reach as required. Ability to climb and descend ladders. Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds, occasionally lift to 100 pounds. Ability to perform tasks requiring eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, and sustained physical effort. Must comply with organizational and departmental policies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education Preference given to applicants with one to two years of post-secondary education in a related field or equivalent experience in a similar position. Experience Two years of experience in equipment operations and general maintenance or equivalent. Two years of experience in the operation of truck and light equipment. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to apply logical thinking and industry standards to accomplish tasks and solve problems. Ability to recognize situations requiring supervisor input. Ability to coordinate tasks, determine sequence of operations, and document outcomes. Ability to apply practical mathematics to measurements and material calculations. Ability to communicate diplomatically and professionally with the public, including during disagreements. Ability to foster teamwork and cooperation within the department and with other City staff.

Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. Exposure to heavy equipment, dust, noise, fumes and engine exhaust. Exposure to temperature extremes, confined spaces, trenches, uneven, muddy, or snow packed/icy terrain. Required availability for emergency callouts including during hazardous conditions. The City of Forest Lake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City does not discriminate or harass on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, familial or marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, age, membership in a local human rights commission, sexual orientation, or any other protected status.